YOU Don t want to miss THIS Official state vacation GUIDE travelalaska.com
2016 Official State Vacation Guide If you re looking for the perfect escape Discover Alaska It s within your reach Hiker, Prince Williams Sound
1 Girdwood You don t want to miss this. With abundant wildlife, wide-open spaces and awe-inspiring scenic beauty, Alaska is the place you don t want to miss. Now is the time to experience it for yourself. Check out the sample itineraries beginning on page 24 and see how much of Alaska you can experience in seven days or fewer. Learn how easy it is to get here. See how simple it is to get around on your own or with a group. Read about average costs and how to save money. With all of these facts at your fingertips, the Alaska vacation of your dreams is truly within reach. And more help is as close as your phone or computer. A trip to Alaska is an adventure you absolutely don t want to miss! Start planning your trip today. Your trip starts here... Seward Highway 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
2 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Trip Planning Distance Guide MILEAGE CHART Anchorage Calgary Coeur d Alene Dawson City Edmonton Anchorage 2160 2578 515 1975 358 775 226 126 832 328 304 724 Calgary 2160 418 1747 185 2038 1687 2386 2286 1544 1832 2086 1436 Coeur d Alene 2578 418 2165 603 2456 2105 2804 2704 1962 2250 2504 1854 Dawson City 515 1747 2165 1562 393 578 741 641 435 187 441 327 Edmonton 1975 185 603 1562 1853 1502 2201 2101 1359 1647 1901 1251 Fairbanks 358 2038 2456 393 1853 653 584 484 710 206 364 602 Haines 775 1687 2105 578 1502 653 1001 901 359 447 701 251 Homer 226 2386 2804 741 2201 584 1001 173 1058 554 530 950 Seward 126 2286 2704 641 2101 484 901 173 958 454 430 850 Skagway 832 1544 1962 435 1359 710 359 1058 958 504 758 108 Tok 328 1832 2250 187 1647 206 447 554 454 504 254 396 Valdez 304 2086 2504 441 1901 364 701 530 430 758 254 650 Whitehorse 724 1436 1854 327 1251 602 251 950 850 108 396 650 Approximate driving distances in miles between principal points by the most direct overland routes. (Marine access routes are not included here.) www.themilepost.com 2016 The Milepost/Morris Communications Fairbanks Haines Homer Seward Skagway Tok Valdez Whitehorse U.S. AK Alaska in relation to contiguous U.S.
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4 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Trip Planning in 3 Easy steps Dog Mushing 1. Choose Your Season Peak Season Mid-May to Mid-September This is when most of Alaska s visitors travel. The days are longest, the temperatures warmest. Some activities or accommodations may be available only during this season. River Rafting
5 Here are the three basic choices to help guide your trip planning. Alaska is within your reach. And we re here to walk you through all the key steps of trip planning. First, you need to answer three questions about your travel preferences: When do you want to visit Alaska? How long can you stay? What is your travel style? Then, we can help you determine the best way to get here, how to get around and what to do. By the time we finish, you ll have all you need to start planning your perfect Alaska vacation. Shoulder Season Early May, Late September and October There are fewer visitors in May, September and October. This is when you re likely to find discounts on travel and activities. The weather in the shoulder season is often very mild. Winter November to April If you want to see the northern lights, go skiing or snowshoeing, attend Fur Rendezvous, watch ice carving competitions or share the excitement of championship sled dog races, then winter is the season for you. Denali National Park Northern Lights 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
6 2016 Official State Vacation Guide 2. Set Your Trip Length If you have a week, you have enough time for a thrilling, memorable Alaska vacation. Almost any itinerary (see pages 24 to 33 for examples) can be adapted to match the amount of time you have. And with a wide variety of activities and tours to choose from, planning your perfect itinerary is easy. Here are some possible foundations for your travel plans. 7 days Fly to and from Alaska and spend most of your time exploring. Focus on one area of the state and take a variety of shorter trips around that area. Rent a car or RV and discover Alaska s unique roadside communities. You ll get a chance to meet friendly people, see wildlife and view unforgettable scenery. Stop where you want, for as long as you want. 7 to 14 days Fly round-trip to Alaska or fly one way and take a cruise ship or state ferry in the other direction. If you plan to travel by sea, add a few shore excursions to experience adventures such as flightseeing, kayaking, walking tours, guided rafting and fishing trips. Add land-based day trips and tours to your itinerary. Include a rail trip. Plan on one low-key day for every two days of intensive touring. Plan a one- or two-day visit to an Alaska Bush community for in-depth discovery of Alaska history and Native culture. 14 days or more Combine two 7-day itineraries. Travel to and from the state using different methods of transportation. Drive to and from Alaska in your own car or RV and see several regions of the state by road, adding occasional flightseeing trips, land-based tours and day cruises. See more than one region. Take a few days to visit the Bush for explorations of Gold Rush history or Native culture. Take a motorcoach tour from the Lower 48 and allow the tour operators to handle all the details for you. with more mountains than buildings Alaska s sweeping landscape will amaze you
7 3. Determine Your Travel Style Do you like to get away from it all or do you travel to meet new people? Do you like a firm itinerary or prefer a flexible, relaxed schedule? Knowing your personal travel style will make it easier to recognize the trip-planning choices that are best for you. If you like to... Make all your own arrangements, change your itinerary during the trip, react to special opportunities as they happen Let someone else design the itinerary and arrange all details (hotels, transportation, activities, meals, etc.) and prefer to pay in advance for your vacations Fishing near Cordova Then your travel style is... Independent Package 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
8 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Getting to Alaska Alaska Marine Highway Flying: Fast, Easy Flying to Alaska is as easy and affordable as flying to many familiar vacation spots. Normal year-round service is supplemented by seasonal service during the summer months, with direct flights and charter service available from a number of U.S. and international cities. WHO Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and US Airways offer scheduled service year-round. American, JetBlue, Frontier, Sun Country Airlines, Condor, Icelandair and Air Canada offer seasonal summer service. WHERE Fly to one of Alaska s major airports in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau or Ketchikan, with connecting flights to other communities WHEN Year-round WHY Spend less time getting here and more time vacationing Get discounts by booking early or looking for online specials Direct and easy access to a wide variety of travel opportunities
9 By Air, Sea or Land The 49th state is an amazing place, where caribou outnumber people and aquamarine glaciers are more common than motorhomes. But even though Alaska is different from any place on earth, getting here is easy. You can be here in just a few hours. In fact, you could be here tomorrow. Many airlines, including Alaska Airlines, fly to Alaska. You could be here tomorrow Approximate Flight Times To Alaska (in hours) Not including layovers Anchorage Fairbanks Juneau Atlanta 7 7.5 7.75 Boston 7 7.5 8.75 Chicago 5.5 6 6.25 Dallas 7 7.5 6.5 Denver 5 5.5 4.75 Detroit 7.5 8 7.25 Houston 7 7.5 7 Las Vegas 5 5.5 5 Los Angeles 5.25 5.75 5 Miami 9.5 10 8.25 Minneapolis 5.25 5.75 5.5 New York City 7 7.5 8 Newark 6.5 7 8.25 Phoenix 5.5 6 4.75 Portland 3.25 3.75 3 Salt Lake City 4.5 5 4 St. Louis 6.5 7 6.25 San Francisco 4.5 5 4 Seattle 3 3.5 2 Washington, D.C. 8 8.5 7.5 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
10 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Alaska Marine Highway System: Relaxed, Flexible The state-owned ferry system is called a marine highway because it provides a vital year-round transportation service for many Alaska communities and it sails through some truly breathtaking scenery. You can travel with or without a vehicle. WHO Alaska Marine Highway System WHERE More than 30 ports (Inside Passage, Gulf of Alaska and Aleutian Islands). Depart northbound from Bellingham, Washington or Prince Rupert, British Columbia WHEN Year-round HOW Make reservations online or by phone: 1-800-642-0066, FerryAlaska.com Make reservations early, especially for cabins WHY Affordable Informal, relaxed atmosphere Flexibility to stop for a day or more if you want to explore an area Incredible coastal scenery TIME Plan on four days to cruise the Inside Passage and seven days to reach Prince William Sound ports. Schedule extra days to take advantage of stopover privileges Cruises: Convenient, All-Inclusive Sail the world-famous Inside Passage aboard a ship that meets your personal needs, interests and budget. Unlike typical cruises, here the focus is on wildlife, history, Native cultures and spectacular coastal scenery. WHO Cruise lines include Princess, Holland America, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival, Crystal, Disney, Oceania, Silversea and Regent Seven Seas. There are also a number of smaller, specialty cruise lines available, such as Un-Cruise Adventures, American Cruise Lines, Lindblad Expeditions, Alaskan Dream, Fantasy Cruises and The Boat Company WHERE Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska. Depart northbound from Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, British Columbia. Depart southbound from Juneau, Ketchikan, Seward, Skagway or Whittier WHEN May through September HOW Use a travel agent Reserve online Contact cruise lines directly WHY Convenient unpack just once All-inclusive pricing The cruise line handles the logistics and details of travel for you TIME Allow four days to reach Inside Passage destinations or seven days for cruises that reach ports around Prince William Sound (Seward, Whittier, Valdez)
11 Driving: The Route To Freedom Passports or equivalent identification are required for any travel by land, sea or air between the U.S. and Canada. If you don t have a passport, valid equivalents for U.S. adults traveling by land or sea include a U.S. Passport Card; an Enhanced Driver s License; or Trusted Traveler Program Cards (including Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST). WHO Alaska Highway WHERE U.S. and Canada. Main access routes head north from Seattle, Washington, and Great Falls, Montana WHEN Year-round. Roads are clear in summer, plowed and sanded in winter Seward Highway HOW If you belong to an auto club (AAA, for example), ask for free trip-planning assistance Detailed driving guides are also available for purchase at bookstores Divide the drive into easy stages and reserve accommodations in advance during peak season Visit NorthToAlaska.com WHY Travel at your own pace, with freedom to stop whenever you choose See spectacular scenery Save money by camping or staying in your RV TIME Allow about five days for travel in each direction, plus time for travel in Alaska Alaska Advice Short on time? Do your driving in Alaska. Fly to Anchorage or Fairbanks and rent a car or RV. 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
12 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Traveling Within Alaska Denali National Park Van And Bus Travel: Relax And Leave The Driving To Others A number of tour companies, both large and small, provide transportation for visitors throughout the summer. Options range from point-to-point transportation to multi-day, all-inclusive tours. For those who would rather not plan their own transportation, package tours are a good option. Packages generally include all or most meals, transfers, transportation and activities. You can choose wilderness travel in Alaska s remote parks, forests and refuges or choose a motorcoach tour that offers attractions and overnight accommodations. The advantage of letting someone else do the driving is that you don t need to worry about logistics or mapping out your route. You are free to relax and enjoy the view. For more trip options and ideas, visit us at
13 Finding your way in the last frontier Part of what makes Alaska so interesting is its varied terrain and geographic diversity. There are parts of the Last Frontier that are not accessible by road. For example, you can reach our capital city, Juneau, only by sea or air because it is surrounded by mountains and water. But you can drive to most of Alaska s other large communities, as well as many smaller communities located near the highway system. Where Alaska s unique geography makes roads impossible, the usual ways of getting around are scheduled and chartered air service or the state ferry. There are good reasons to use each type of travel and reasons to mix and match the way you go it s all part of the adventure. Here are some suggestions for getting around Alaska Alaska Advice Watch for vehicles stopped on the roadside. It often means that people are watching wildlife. Dall Sheep 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
14 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Self-Drive: Take The Scenic Byway We keep talking about Alaska s aweinspiring scenery. You can see it for yourself by driving Alaska s highways. Major roads in Alaska are paved 1,829 miles (2,943 km) have earned the designation of scenic byway. Mile-for-mile, Alaska has more scenic highways than any other state. Richardson Highway One of the great things about driving in Alaska is that it s difficult to get lost. For example, only two highways leave Anchorage, one going north, the other going south. Sooner or later, you re bound to arrive someplace wonderful. And there s nothing especially difficult about driving in Alaska. Any valid U.S. or Canadian driver s license is honored here. So if you feel comfortable driving at home, you ll feel comfortable driving here, too. Bring Your Own If you have time, drive one way and return using the Alaska Marine Highway System or ship your vehicle on Totem Ocean Trailer Express. Rent a Car or RV You can cover much of Alaska s road system in a standard rental car or RV. You don t need four-wheel drive to get around. Alaska Marine Highway System: Easygoing, Oceangoing Sail point-to-point on the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) and trace hundreds of miles of breathtaking coastline. The entire AMHS network is a National Scenic Byway. For you, this designation means exceptionally spectacular scenery along all the routes and rich cultural history in the port communities. Designed for Alaska residents and with access to dozens of Alaska communities, the ferry system is also a good choice for independent travelers. Bring your car, RV or bicycle and, when you arrive at a port, you re ready to go. Alaska Marine Highway Ferry Walk-on space is usually available but vehicle spaces on the most popular routes sell out in advance. As an option, consider renting cars at port destinations. Visit the Alaska Marine Highway System website at FerryAlaska.com for details.
15 Rail: Cover Distances In Comfort The Alaska Railroad The Alaska Railroad gracefully winds through indescribably beautiful landscapes and, since you re not driving, you can really enjoy the views. The rail corridor runs from Seward to Fairbanks a distance of 467 miles (752 km). The train runs all year long, with seasonally adjusted schedules and routes. Railroad conductors and guides point out the highlights, offering commentary about scenery and wildlife along the way. The Alaska Railroad offers unique, double-decker, glass-domed cars that let you take full advantage of the scenery. Reservations can be made through a variety of cruise/tour companies and with the Alaska Railroad at AlaskaRailroad.com. The White Pass & Yukon Route Consider a trip on the narrow-gauge White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. Built in 1898, at the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, this 110-mile (177-km) private railway linked the port of Skagway to Whitehorse in the Yukon, giving prospectors access to the gold fields beyond. Today, the White Pass offers narrated excursions in traditional parlor cars, traveling the Scenic Railway of the World. Flying: Fast, Flexible Flight Distances and Times Within Alaska (in hours and minutes) Miles Anchorage to: Hours 158 Kenai 0:30 223 Homer 0:50 252 Kodiak 0:58 302 Valdez 0:40 364 Fairbanks 0:50 399 Bethel 1:10 540 Nome 1:30 549 Kotzebue 1:30 571 Juneau 1:30 725 Barrow 3:00 814 Dutch Harbor 3:00 836 Ketchikan 3:30 This is only a partial listing. All times are approximate. Alaska Railroad Scheduled Air Service If you have a short time to spend in Alaska, fly between cities or take a pre-packaged tour. Most towns in Alaska have regularly scheduled air service, with connections to airlines at other U.S. airports. Air Taxis and Charters There are many good reasons to travel by small plane: a fly-in fishing experience, a visit to a Native community, access to a wilderness lodge or flightseeing. Helicopters are also widely used. Bush plane services are generally called air taxis or air charters. These small air carriers serve thousands of Alaskans and visitors every year. They know what trips to recommend and how to provide an unforgettable experience within your budget. 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
16 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Alaska is affordable Wonder Lake, Denali National Park Estimating Your Travel Costs Travel expenses in Alaska are comparable to most U.S. cities. From luxury lodges to charming B&B s, rustic cabins to backpacking, the cost of an Alaska vacation can vary greatly. Ultimately, the cost of your trip will be determined by your personal travel style and preferences. For example, the average price for a dinner entree at an Alaska restaurant is between $12 and $40. Average nightly rates for a standard room in peak season are: Budget: $100 - $150 Moderate: $150 - $250 Luxury: $250+ Research shows that your Alaska vacation will be similar in cost to past vacations taken outside your home state. Willow Lake, Copper Center
17 The Memories are Priceless When it comes to planning your trip, Alaska is more economical than you might think. With a wide range of travel options, accommodations and activities, there s something to suit most any budget. For specific pricing information about lodging, dining, package tours or a wide array of Alaska activities, such as glacier cruises, guided fishing trips, flightseeing, bear viewing and more, log on to. Hope Ways to Save Check the home page of for travel specials Visit AlaskasHottestTravelDeals.com Use the Internet to search for online and Internet-only specials Consider traveling in the shoulder season of early May, late September and October Take advantage of early booking discounts on package travel, usually in January and February Save on transportation costs focus your trip on one region Ask about discounts for seniors and military members 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
18 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Experiences you don t want to miss Spencer Glacier Get Up Close With Glaciers Come see the truly ancient, enormous rivers of ice that sculpted Alaska s mountains and calving icebergs that hit the ocean with thunderous roars. Take a day cruise out of Whittier, Seward or Valdez Try simple glacier day hikes in Valdez, Kennicott, Juneau, Seward and the Mat-Su Valley Kayak the fjords in Glacier Bay, Prince William Sound or around Kodiak Island Flightsee from Talkeetna or Anchorage Explore The Wilderness You can experience true Alaska wilderness during the day and sleep in a warm comfortable bed at night. Guided trips and tours take you to a variety of remote places, where you can enjoy almost any outdoor interest. Try a wilderness lodge for remote adventure, combined with luxury accommodations Take a multi-day wilderness expedition in one of Alaska s remote parks, forests or refuges
19 Customize your trip Now that you know about getting to Alaska and getting around, it s time to think about specific activities and places you want to experience. In a few pages, we ll provide sample itineraries that suggest ways to combine transportation loops, regional attractions, special activities and your personal interests. You can easily substitute any part of an itinerary with other activities or places that you find more interesting, but first you need to know some of the possibilities. This isn t a complete list only a starting point. More itineraries and a detailed calendar of events can be found on our website at. Juneau Winter Activities Visiting in winter will give you a distinctive Alaska experience. Activities that visitors often enjoy the most include: Watching the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race from Anchorage to Nome Fairbanks World Ice Art Championships Anchorage Fur Rendezvous Viewing the northern lights Snowmobiling Dog sledding World-class downhill skiing, heliskiing and cross-country skiing Tour of Anchorage crosscountry ski race Yukon Quest Sled Dog Race between Fairbanks and Whitehorse, Yukon Fairbanks 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
20 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Get To Know Native Cultures About 15 percent of Alaska s population is composed of distinct indigenous cultural groups, including Iñupiat, Aleut, Athabascan, Yupik, Tlingit and others. There are a number of venues that provide opportunities to interact with Alaska Natives and learn about their traditions, crafts, music and other cultural distinctions. Ketchikan Totems Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, a living museum in Anchorage Take a guided tour to Barrow, site of the Iñupiat Heritage Center Go to the Alutiiq Museum Archaeological Repository in Kodiak Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North in Fairbanks and enjoy historical and contemporary Alaska art Tour the famous totem exhibits in Ketchikan Visit the Anchorage Museum Watch The Wildlife If you want to see wildlife, Alaska is the place to visit. Bald eagles gather by the hundreds. Moose cause traffic jams. Wild Dall sheep skip along roadside cliffs. State and national wilderness lands blanket the state. Some suggestions: Flightseeing trips that specialize in wildlife viewing by air Visit likely areas especially wildlife refuges or national parks Guided wildlife tours by motorcoach or bus Guided tours that specialize in bear viewing, whale watching or bird watching View moose in urban settings there are roughly 1,000 moose in Anchorage Bear Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Portage Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward Alaska Zoo in Anchorage Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka Alaska is a land of adventure come experience it for yourself
21 Explore Russian America America bought the Alaska Territory for about 2 an acre in 1867, 126 years after Alaska was discovered by Vitus Bering. Sitka was the capital of Russian-America and Alaska s first territorial capital. The Russians also had headquarters in Kodiak and outposts all along the coastline. The strength of Alaska s Russian heritage is still visible in the onion-shaped domes of Russian Orthodox churches that rise above many Alaska towns. Visit museums with exhibits exploring Russia s role in the span of Alaska history Join historical tours in towns and regions with strong Russian connections Take Off For Flightseeing Flightseeing by plane or helicopter is an ideal way to experience the magnitude of Alaska. A variety of tours, excursions and charters are available, from 30-minute hops to full-day outings. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the U.S. The Inside Passage for views of forests, islands, glaciers and, sometimes, whales Catch Gold Fever The lure of gold touched almost every corner of Alaska. Juneau was named for the prospector who started Alaska s first big gold rush. The towns of Skagway, Haines and Dyea offered gateways to the Klondike. Nome s golden sands lured tens of thousands. Join a ranger-guided walking tour through the restored buildings of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway Pan for gold in Juneau, Fairbanks, Girdwood, Skagway and Nome Take a day trip on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad to experience Gold Rush-era travel Pan for gold or find some of the 44 abandoned gold dredges in Nome Visit Independence Mine State Historical Park, in an alpine setting near Wasilla Walk among old Russian buildings and learn about Russian and Native cultures at the Sitka National Historical Park View brightly painted spirit houses at Eklutna Historical Park Glacier-landing tours Tours of Mount McKinley from Talkeetna and Anchorage Gold Panning, Nome 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
22 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Within your
23 reach give us seven days, we ll give you the trip of a lifetime The following seven-day itineraries with optional add-ons are suggestions to give you an idea of how much you can do and see in Alaska within a week. They are meant to serve as a starting point for trip planning, with a variety of options to fit your needs. For example, you can easily combine two itineraries to make a 14-day itinerary or reverse the route of any trip. We ve also included additional sample itineraries on our website,. Mount Drum, Copper River Valley 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
24 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Seward Outdoor dining, Kenai River
25 Land of Natural Wonders Anchorage & The Kenai The ideal place to experience a great mix of Alaska culture and wildlife Day A Anchorage Experience the wonders of Alaska s indigenous people at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Climb Flattop Mountain, one of the city s popular day hikes; stroll a peaceful, wooded trail in Bicentennial Park. Visit the Alaska Zoo or tee off under the midnight sun. Day B Anchorage Start the day on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail with views of Cook Inlet and six mountain ranges. Visit Sunshine Plaza for a historical view of the 1964 earthquake or see it firsthand at Earthquake Park. Then drive towards Turnagain Arm to Potter Marsh, home to more than 140 species of waterfowl. Portage Glacier Day C Anchorage - Seward Head 127 miles (204 km) south via the Seward Highway, a National Scenic Byway and All-American Road. In Seward, visit the Alaska SeaLife Center and Exit Glacier. Take a boat tour of Kenai Fjords National Park to see a variety of sea life, such as otters, sea lions and puffins. Day D Seward - Soldotna - Kenai Drive through the Chugach National Forest west to Soldotna, famous for Kenai River king salmon and the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, home to moose and other wildlife. Visit nearby Kenai, rich in history and culture, and tour the Holy Assumption Russian Orthodox Church, a National Historic Landmark. Day E Kenai - Homer Take a morning drive south along the bluffs of Cook Inlet, where sightings of beluga whales and seals are common. At the end of the highway, you ll reach Homer, a bustling artist community and the Halibut Capital of the World. Take an afternoon to explore Homer s historical harbor walk and eclectic art galleries. Day F Homer Explore the Homer Spit, with miles of beaches, charter a fishing expedition or take a water taxi to Halibut Cove, a quiet paradise tucked away in Kachemak Bay State Park. Day G Homer - Girdwood - Anchorage While driving to Anchorage, stop at Portage Glacier for a boat tour or visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for wildlife viewing. Eat lunch in Girdwood, home to a luxury year-round resort based at sea level. Ride the enclosed aerial tram up Mount Alyeska for spectacular views. Two-Day Add-On: Kodiak From Anchorage, fly to Kodiak Island, Alaska s Emerald Isle. Explore Kodiak s magnificent coastal scenery by land and by sea, enjoy world-class sport fishing, view Kodiak brown bears, marvel at the marine wildlife and birds and learn about Kodiak s rich Alutiiq and Russian heritage. 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
26 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Valdez Matanuska Glacier
27 The Alaska Pioneer Anchorage to Mat-Su & Valdez Explore the state like a true Alaskan by riverboat, back road, on foot and by ferry. From Anchorage to the Mat-Su and on to Valdez, experience Alaska s pioneer culture of gold mining, glacier trekking, fishing and wilderness adventure. Day A Anchorage - Wasilla Fly into Anchorage and experience the many shops, museums and art galleries. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the scenic Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, accessible from downtown, or take a hike in Kincaid Park. Rent a car or RV and drive 42 miles (68 km) north to Wasilla, home of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Visit Iditarod Headquarters for a sled dog ride and learn about Alaska s unique history. Day B Wasilla - Palmer Driving north on the Parks Highway, take an off-the-beaten-path road to Hatcher Pass and Independence Mine State Historical Park. Look for wildlife and old gold mines nearby. Take an alpine tundra hike or have lunch at a mountain lodge. Continue to Palmer. Day C Palmer - Glennallen Travel north on the Glenn Highway National Scenic Byway to visit the Musk Ox Farm and Matanuska Glacier, Alaska s largest road-accessible glacier. Day D Glennallen - Copper Center Enjoy one of the area s many recreational activities, from hiking and river running to fishing. From Copper Center, stop at the visitor center for a view of the Wrangell Mountains, located in the nation s largest national park. Spend the night in Glennallen or Copper Center. Day E Copper Center - Valdez Take the Richardson Highway south and stop to view Worthington Glacier, accessible just off the highway atop Thompson Pass. Once in Valdez, take a day cruise in Prince William Sound to Columbia Glacier, one of the largest tidewater glaciers in Alaska, or take a guided river trip through historical Keystone Canyon past towering waterfalls. Day F Valdez Valdez is a premier fishing destination. Book a full- or half-day charter or fish right from shore. Have a relaxing meal at a local restaurant or pull into a picnic site to grill your own fresh catch of the day. Get acquainted with the city s rich Gold Rush history by touring its historical museums and scenic trails. Day G Prince William Sound - Whittier - Anchorage Put your vehicle on a ferry and ride the Alaska Marine Highway through Prince William Sound to Whittier. Drive through the longest combined vehicle-railroad tunnel in North America on your way back to Anchorage. Two-Day Add-On: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park For a great adventure in the largest national park in the country, take the Edgerton Highway turnoff south of Glennallen for an exciting drive on a 93-mile (150-km) paved/gravel road through Chitina and onto the McCarthy Road to the old mining towns of McCarthy and Kennicott. Stay overnight. 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
28 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Anchorage Chena River, Fairbanks
29 The Heartland Fairbanks to Anchorage Whether you fly into Alaska s biggest cities or drive in through Tok, the road from Fairbanks to Anchorage is big on culture, history and scenic wonders. Day A Fairbanks After arriving in Fairbanks, the gateway to Alaska s Interior and the Arctic, rent a car or RV and visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North, one of the state s top-10 visitor attractions. See muskoxen and reindeer on a tour of the university s Large Animal Research Station. Day B Fairbanks Start the morning with a riverboat cruise along the Chena or Tanana rivers, lunch on the deck at a riverside restaurant and try your hand at gold panning on an afternoon gold-mining tour. Stop for a view of the trans-alaska oil pipeline on the Steese Highway. Fairbanks Day C Fairbanks - DenalI Enjoy a two-hour drive south to Denali National Park, home to Mount McKinley, North America s tallest peak. Take a full-day guided tour to see sweeping landscapes and incredible wildlife. Day D Denali Denali National Park offers a variety of activities. Take a flightseeing tour via small plane or helicopter, or try a whitewater rafting excursion. Stay in the area for an evening program. Day E Denali - Talkeetna Continue south to the town of Talkeetna to see majestic views of Mount McKinley. Flightseeing tours provide dramatic views and a unique perspective of the mountain. Experience a guided fishing trip or wildlife and scenic jet boat tour. Day F Talkeetna - Eklutna - Anchorage Enjoy a scenic drive south to Eklutna Historical Park. Tour St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church and view brightly painted spirit houses. Experience a canoe and bike excursion at Eklutna Lake or hike majestic Thunderbird Falls. Learn about local wildlife at the Eagle River Nature Center or walk through the scenic river valley on nearby trails. Continue to Anchorage to enjoy a meal of exquisite, fresh seafood (wild Alaska salmon is a local dining specialty). Day G Anchorage Alaska s largest city has world-class theater, a vital arts and culture scene, outdoor markets, music in the park and 1,000 resident moose. Visit Lake Hood, the busiest float plane harbor in the world or fish for salmon in downtown Ship Creek. Try an award-winning brewpub or see a baseball game under the midnight sun. Rail Option Rather than traveling by car or RV, take a scenic railway tour of Alaska from Fairbanks to Anchorage, stopping overnight in Denali or Talkeetna. 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
30 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Juneau Inside Passage
31 The Seafarer Coastal Cruise A cruise through the Inside Passage across the Gulf of Alaska through Prince William Sound lets visitors experience diverse landscapes, pristine waters and spectacular wildlife. Day A Vancouver, BC Sail from Vancouver on one of many Alaska cruises. (This cruise can also be made from Alaska to Vancouver.) Day B Inside Passage Alaska s coastline is one of the most scenic waterways in the world. You ll experience wildlife and wonder along Alaska s Inside Passage as you make your way north to Alaska s colorful frontier ports. Skagway Day C Ketchikan Known as Alaska s First City, Ketchikan is the first major community travelers come to as they travel north. Founded as a fishing camp, Ketchikan is built on steep hillsides. Get an introduction to the indigenous people of the area by visiting the Totem Heritage Center, Totem Bight State Historical Park or Saxman Native Village. Day D Juneau Perched on a thin strip of land at the mouth of Gold Creek, Juneau is one of America s most beautiful state capitals. The steep summits of Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts provide a gorgeous backdrop. Juneau was once an integral part of Alaska s Gold Rush. Day E Skagway This Gateway to the Klondike saw countless fortune-seekers pass through during the heyday of Alaska s Gold Rush. Today, you can still feel like a prospector among the rustic boardwalks with frontier-style storefronts. Explore town and then take a three-hour trip on the historical White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. Day F Glacier Bay National Park Spread across an impressive 3.2 million acres in Southeast Alaska, this treasure trove of scenic coastal islands, narrow fjords and abundant wildlife offers an inspirational glimpse of what Mother Nature does best. The park is home to the highest concentration of tidewater glaciers on the planet. Day G College Fjords - Whittier/Seward After crossing the Gulf of Alaska, glide into College Fjords, where you can see over a dozen ice-blue glaciers. Step off your cruise ship in Whittier or Seward. Stay and explore the Kenai Peninsula, travel to Anchorage for a connecting land tour or fly directly home. Three-Day Add-On: Whittier/Seward - Denali National Park - Fairbanks From Whittier or Seward, take a scenic journey north on the Alaska Railroad. See Mount McKinley on a guided tour of Denali National Park and continue by train to Fairbanks, Alaska s Golden Heart City. 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
32 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Haines Creek Street, Ketchikan
33 The Inside Passage Explorer Inside Passage Fly/Ferry Visitors looking for an unforgettable expedition discover Alaska by air and sea. Day A Ketchikan Arrive in Ketchikan, Alaska s first port of call, via air or Alaska ferry. Pick up a walking tour map and explore downtown attractions, including historical Creek Street, Tongass Historical Museum, Southeast Alaska Discovery Center and unique local art galleries and shops. Day B Ketchikan - Sitka Take an excursion boat or plane to the 2.3-million-acre Misty Fiords National Monument, with its majestic fjords or choose a half-day guided sport fishing trip. In the afternoon, fly to Sitka. Sitka Day C Sitka Tour historic St. Michael s Cathedral and the Russian Bishop s House in what was once the Russian capital of Alaska. Take in Alaska Native artifacts at Sheldon Jackson Museum, totem poles and a cultural center at Sitka National Historical Park and view eagles and other birds of prey up close at the Alaska Raptor Center. Day D Sitka - Juneau Take the ferry or fly to Juneau, Alaska s capital city. Visit magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, 13 miles from downtown, a rainforest botanical garden, a fish hatchery or ride the Mount Roberts tramway. Day E Juneau Pick from dozens of soft adventure tours like sea kayaking, rafting, glacier trekking or hike one of Juneau s numerous trails. Visit shops and museums in the historic downtown area. Day F Juneau - Haines Enjoy a morning cruise on an Alaska ferry to Haines. Discover historic Fort William H. Seward on the shores of one of the world s longest fjords. In the afternoon, explore the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Spend the night in Haines. Day G Haines - Skagway - Juneau Get an early start and take the water taxi or ferry to Skagway, a browser s paradise. Take in Gold Rush history on the Scenic Railway of the World, the railroad to the White Pass summit. Return to Juneau via fast ferry or air taxi before departing. Three-Day Add-On: Wrangell and Petersburg After leaving Ketchikan, travel via ferry, jet or air taxi to the small communities of Wrangell and Petersburg. In Wrangell, take an exhilarating run up the Stikine River by jet boat or visit Petroglyph Beach to view prehistoric rock carvings. In Petersburg, also known as Little Norway, see traditional Norwegian painted buildings and take an excursion to LeConte Glacier. 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
34 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Frequently asked questions Valdez Q: Is Alaska all wilderness? A: Alaska s cities feature the same amenities found in any typical American town, including community services such as public transportation, hospitals and banks. You ll also recognize the names of familiar hotel chains, restaurants and stores. And Americans traveling in Alaska never have to worry about foreign money, electric current, laws or languages after all, we re part of the United States, too! Q: What are the roads like? A: Most of Alaska s roads are two- to four-lane paved highways, but we also have smaller dirt roads that are regularly graded. Because driving conditions vary by season, the state makes it easy to check current conditions for any state road. After you get to Alaska, just phone 511 for recorded information or visit 511.alaska.gov. Q: What time zone does Alaska use? A: Alaska is west of the Pacific states and has a separate time zone: Alaska Standard Time (AST). AST is one hour earlier than Pacific Standard Time and four hours earlier than Eastern Standard Time. So when it s 8 a.m. in California, and 11 a.m. in New York City, it s 7 a.m. in Alaska. Be aware of the time difference when you place phone calls and make reservations.
35 Q: When should I make my reservations? A: If you want to visit during the peak summer season, make reservations at least six weeks in advance. For travel in May or October, book a minimum of three weeks before travel. Winter travelers can get excellent reservations with as little as two weeks notice. If you can travel on short notice, you may be able to find last-minute openings online. These are general guidelines. Add a few weeks if your trip includes elements that are very popular or in short supply (e.g., cabins on the Alaska ferry). Q: Where s the best fishing? A: You ll find excellent fishing almost anywhere in the state, from fly fishing in high mountain streams to angling for deepwater halibut. For Alaska fishing regulations and tips, visit the Alaska Department of Fish & Game online or call to order a copy of a current sport fish regulation guide. The website includes week-to-week fishing reports, so remember to check online just before you visit. You can buy a nonresident license (for one, three, seven or 14 days) in advance online or in Alaska at almost any grocery store, charter service or fish-related business. Call (907) 267-2218 or visit sf.adfg.state.ak.us. Q: Will I see moose, bears or bald eagles? A: No one can guarantee wildlife sightings. But there are ways to improve your chances. Take a tour designed for wildlife viewing or travel when and where animals are likely to appear (for example, bears gather to feed on spawning salmon in late summer). For detailed wildlife information, seasonal/regional viewing calendars and printed viewing guides, contact the Alaska Division of Wildlife Conservation at (907) 465-4190 or go to their online Wildlife Viewing pages at wildlifeviewing.alaska.gov. Q: Isn t Alaska mostly covered by ice? A: Alaska has more than 100,000 glaciers, so a person could easily imagine ice everywhere. But in fact, only 5 percent of the state is glaciated. Fortunately, you can experience the wonder of glaciers in nearly every region of the state and, in many cases, you can view them from the road. Q: What clothes should I pack? A: Bring comfortable, sensible clothes designed to wear in layers that you can easily add or take off. (For example, a short-sleeved shirt, sweater and light, waterproof jacket.) Remember that each region has its own climate, from mild and moist in the Inside Passage to hot and dry in Fairbanks. Casual clothes are suitable almost everywhere in Alaska. Moose 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
36 2016 Official State Vacation Guide Q: Do I need a passport to travel to Alaska? A: No passport is required if you are flying direct from the continental U.S. All persons traveling via land, air or sea between the U.S. and Canada must have a passport or equivalent. Please visit cbp.gov for updated information requirements in advance of your trip. Q: when and where can I see the northern lights? Icy Strait Point, Hoonah A: During summer, when the glorious midnight sun hangs high in the sky, it s almost impossible to see northern lights or stars, or even Fourth of July fireworks! Your best chance to see the aurora comes during winter months, on dark nights with clear skies, in areas to the north, especially Fairbanks. If you visit in winter, ask your hotel for a northern lights wake-up call. For aurora forecasts (as well as recent volcano and earthquake activity), visit the Geophysical Institute online at gi.alaska.edu. Q: What temperatures can I expect? A: 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0-10 Average High Temperature F Anchorage Fairbanks Juneau The trip of a lifetime is at your fingertips CREDITS Front Cover: Prince William Sound Michael DeYoung/State of Alaska Back Cover: Mount McKinley Michael DeYoung/State of Alaska Other Photos: Alaska Airlines; AlaskaStock; Clark James Mishler/State of Alaska; Dave Parkhurst; Mark Kelley/State of Alaska; Matt Hage/State of Alaska; Michael DeYoung/State of Alaska; Robin Hood/State of Alaska
37 Start Planning your trip today A Find it all on Log on to Alaska s official travel website for helpful trip-planning tips and useful information. Sample Itineraries Alaska Maps Calendar of Events Activities Weather & Climate Lodging Rates Travel Specials Transportation B Personalize Your Trip! Simplify your Alaska vacation with the free TravelAlaska apps for iphone and Android. TM Create a personalized itinerary on and take it with you on your journey. Get directions, find things to do and more. Search TravelAlaska C Find Us Anywhere! For the latest news and information about travel to Alaska, follow us on: facebook.com/alaskatravelnews twitter.com/alaskatravlnews youtube.com/alaskatia pinterest.com/visitalaska D Request a printed Vacation Planner Get your free Official Alaska State Vacation Planner. It s a 104-page book of photos, descriptions, contact information and all the details you want to know about Alaska s accommodations, activities, points of interest, transportation and more. Get your Vacation Planner by: Sending in the reply card attached to this book Requesting one online at 2016 Official State Vacation Guide
State of Alaska Official Alaska Vacation Guide Dept. 6102 P.O. Box 196710 Anchorage, AK 99519-6710 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID State of Alaska 2015/2016 Beyond Your Dreams Within Your Reach